Spain trip - Toledo, pt. 2

And we're off!

Sinogoga de Transito

de los Reyes cloister walk

The view from "the Jesuit" church

Interior from "the Jesuit" church

The splendid start Toledo had last night continued for Charles this morning and throughout the day! Even a small glitch in battery not charging during the night was quickly rectified with the closeness of the hotel and the charger. That task taken care of, it was back into the meandering alleys/streets that make up the former imperial city of Toledo.

First up for Charles this morning was the Museo de El Greco, across the street from his hotel. It is unlikely that the museum sits on the actual site of the artist's home, but the excellent presentation this small museum offers on Toledo's favorite son (by adoption) is found everywhere one looks. It was interesting how many other places throughout the city have a connection to El Greco either through being the subject of a painting, having a painting by El Greco or one of his students, or other historical link.

As the hotel and museum are in the old Jewish quarter of the city, the next two stops were to former sinogogues. The first, the Sinogoga del Transito, is also home to the Museo Sefardi which about Judiasm in Spain up to and including the expulsion.

A bit down the street was the second of Toledo's sinagogues, the Sinagoga de Santa Maria del Blanca. A treat here was in the back, in a meditative garden, stood a side room where a sweet Spanish nun kept an eye on artwork created as a living witness to God.

One final stop on this treat was the former Monastery de San Jose de Los Reyes. This is such a beautiful space, it is no wonder the early Spanish kings made this their place during Toledo's imperial glory.

Continuing his quest for more things to see, Charles came upon the Iglesia de Idlefonso, a Jesuit church. Another stunning church was to be seen but the Jesuits knew there was more to offer as their banner outside advertised an amazing view from the twin belfry towers. And they did not misrepresent the view!

And that was just the morning!!!